The Impact of Marine Pollution on Ecosystems

How does marine pollution affect ecosystems?

- Reduced oxygen levels

- Harmful chemicals in water

- Plastic ingestion by marine life

Answer:

Marine pollution affects ecosystems through reduced oxygen levels, the presence of harmful chemicals in the water, and plastic ingestion by marine life.

Marine pollution has a significant impact on ecosystems around the world. One of the main ways it affects ecosystems is by reducing oxygen levels in the water. This can lead to hypoxia, or low oxygen levels, which can result in the death of marine life such as fish, shellfish, and other organisms that depend on oxygen to survive.

In addition to reduced oxygen levels, marine pollution introduces harmful chemicals into the water. These chemicals can come from industrial sources, agricultural runoff, and other human activities. They can disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystem, leading to negative impacts on marine organisms and their habitats.

Another consequence of marine pollution is the ingestion of plastic by marine life. Plastic waste in the oceans breaks down into small pieces over time, known as microplastics, which can be mistaken for food by marine animals. When ingested, plastic can cause internal injuries, blockages, and even death in marine organisms.